The combination of Arabic and Spanish is considered an exceptional joint honors program due to their status as two of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Throughout history, there has been significant interaction between these languages and cultures, particularly during the period of Islamic Spain from 711 to 1492, and this exchange continues to the present day.

Arabic, spoken by over 350 million people across a vast region extending from the Atlantic to the Persian Gulf, holds immense importance. Acquiring knowledge of Arabic not only grants access to a fascinating and diverse region but also unlocks the rich intellectual heritage of Islam.

By pursuing Spanish studies at the University of Edinburgh, students are immersed in a remarkable array of literature, film, poetry, and theatre from various parts of the world, all explored within a historical context. The program equips students with the ability to distinguish between different varieties and registers of Spanish, while also fostering essential intercultural competencies.